Småland may translate as "small country," but by no means does the region in southern Sweden seem small. Thousands of lakes, dense forests and the many islands of the archipelago coast stretch as far as the eye can see. They offer endless possibilities for adventures in nature - on foot, by bike or on the water. The Astrid Lindgren World and many other offers for children make Småland especially attractive for families.
Attractions in Småland
Highlights
Wide apple orchards, idyllic lakesides, and magnificent views of the Vättern make the circular route a highlight in the north of Småland.
The bike route leads once around the island of Öland, through fascinating nature and with views of the sea. The 360 km of the Ölandsleden are ...
Unique geological features have created Öland's landscape. From Karlevi southwards, the line ...
The national cycle path Sydostleden runs from Växjö to Simrishamn. The wide lake landscape of the Åsnen National Park and sunny orchard meadows ...
Since May 2018, Lake Snen has been protected as a national park. The fjords, forests and orchards ...
Beautiful circular route through mostly flat terrain from the coast to the inland of Småland
Der Leuchtturm Garpen steht auf einer kleinen Insel etwa 2 km vor der Küste Bergkvaras.
Beautiful, easy circular route around Lake Rottnen with many viewpoints and swimming spots
Im Werksmuseum der Firma Husqvarna können viele spannende Ausstellungsgegenstände aus der ...
Beautiful cycling route on secluded paths through the typical forest and lake landscape of Småland
Småland: Open nature between forests, lakes and archipelago coastline
The archipelago coast of Småland with its deep bays and many small rocky islands is as worthy of seeing as the Åsnen National Park, one of four in Småland. Its freshwater archipelago is an ideal habitat for numerous animal species - a paradise for birdwatchers, anglers and canoeists.
Outdoor sports enthusiasts have a free choice: from a leisurely bike ride with plenty of coffee breaks to a solitary trekking route through the wilderness, everything is possible in Småland. Whether you are a family with children or traveling alone - with the wide range of outdoor activities, everyone will find something suitable.
Perfect family vacation in Småland
What should not be missing on the agenda of your vacation in Småland is a visit to Kalmar Castle. In summer, Kalmar is the place for children: in historical costumes they can experience numerous adventures, learn about ancient customs or put villains to flight - so let's go fight the dragon!
For an unforgettable stay with the whole family in Småland, there is also the vacation resort by Lake Åsnen. Because of the location on the water, children and parents will find a lot of variety here. But not only in Åsnen National Park, but in Småland in general there are a number of swimming spots and numerous lakes to cool off perfectly on hot days.
Meeting childhood heroes
Småland's most famous daughter is undoubtedly the children's author Astrid Lindgren, whose footsteps can be followed in her hometown of Vimmerby. In the author's childhood home you can learn all kinds of interesting facts about the popular author. After a guided tour you can have a look around the library, rediscover the heroes of your childhood or read to your children. The lemonade tree that Astrid Lindgren loved to climb as a child still stands in the garden.
A family vacation in Småland would not be complete without a visit to the amusement park Astrid Lindgrens Värld! Whether you're a fan of Pippi Longstocking, Michel from Lönneberga, Ronja the Robber's Daughter or Karlsson from the Roof, you can explore Villa Kunterbunt or Mattiswald on your own. For children, a visit to the theme park is an unforgettable experience - and adults can also reminisce here and rediscover their inner child. In any case, the Astrid Lindgren World is fun for the whole family!
Culture, traditions and cuisine in Småland
Photo: nadin333, Adobe Stock
Unspoiled nature, Astrid Lindgren and family activities are not the only things Småland has to offer its visitors. The villages with their typical red Swedish houses offer historic wooden churches and cultural sights - of course, you should also visit one of the many village museums, called hembygdsgård. For those interested in history, a trip to Kalmar Castle or the matchstick museum - one of the many examples of the inventiveness of the Smålanders - is also worthwhile. The region is also known as a center of glassblowing. At some glassworks, you can even try your hand at glassblowing yourself.
For refreshment, you can enjoy delicious Småland cuisine, which places great emphasis on high-quality, locally produced food. Lingonberries, also known as "red gold", are a must. Try a juicy cheesecake with the red berries - although the lingonberry puree "Krösamos" and the juice made from the berries "Lingondricka" are everywhere in Småland anyway!



